A Modular Numerical Control System Based on Embedded Technology

This paper proposes a novel architecture of the Numerical Control (NC) system based on multiprocessor and real-time Ethernet. To comply with the trend of modular, open framework NC system, the hardware architecture is composed of ARM, DSP and FPGA modules, of which the ARM module is responsible for HMI (Human-Machine Interface), the DSP module is in charge of core calculation, and the FPGA module plays the role of logical operation and constructs a real-time Ethernet for integrating servo drive modules, machine input/output units into the system. The proposed NC system has the advantages of smart reconfiguration, high performance but low cost. Finally, successful utilization of this system for a hoop bending machine control is briefly described. At present, research on NC system is mainly based on Personal Computer (PC) or Industry PC (IPC), but with the increasing requirements of industrial applications for high performance, low cost, and better reliability, sophisticated algorithms in machine tool control system such as interpolation, speed control, look-ahead and position control can be implemented in real time by using high-performance microprocessors and specialized IP (Intellectual Property). The NC system based on embedded technology is drawing the attention of the public.